Water-Based

Pros: Compatible with ALL condoms; Compatible with ALL toy materials; Easy to clean; Most widely available

Cons: Dries out faster (needs reapplication); Can get sticky; Some contain irritating ingredients

WHO guidelines: Osmolality <1,200 mOsm/kg. pH 4.5 for vaginal use. Low osmolality reduces micro-tear risk.

Recommended: Sliquid H2O, Good Clean Love Almost Naked, Aloe Cadabra

Ingredients to avoid: Glycerin (can cause yeast infections); Propylene glycol (irritant); Parabens (endocrine disruptors); Chlorhexidine (cytotoxic); Nonoxynol-9 (damages tissue)

Silicone-Based

Pros: Long-lasting (doesn't dry out); Waterproof (great for shower/pool); Hypoallergenic; Won't cause yeast infections

Cons: NOT compatible with silicone toys (causes pitting); Harder to clean off; Can stain sheets; More expensive

Recommended: Uberlube, Sliquid Silver, Swiss Navy Silicone

Oil-Based

Pros: Very long-lasting; Moisturizing; Natural options (coconut oil)

Cons: DESTROYS latex condoms; Not safe for vaginal use (disrupts pH, increases infection risk); Stains fabrics; Can trap bacteria

Recommended: Coconut oil (for external/anal only with non-latex condoms), Boy Butter